New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise

The Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise offers a unique opportunity to experience the charm of New Orleans from the Mississippi River. Passengers can enjoy live jazz music and informative commentary about the city’s iconic skyline and historic sites. With an optional Southern buffet dining experience, this 2-hour paddlewheel journey provides an immersive way to explore the culture and beauty of the Big Easy. Whether seeking a relaxing afternoon or an engaging look into the city’s history, this cruise promises an unforgettable experience.

Good To Know

• Unique 2-hour paddlewheel cruise on the Mississippi River with live jazz music by the Steamboat Stompers.
• Cruise features live commentary about the city’s iconic skyline and notable sites.
• Optional buffet lunch with Southern classics, including Jambalaya and New Orleans Bread Pudding.
• Inclusive for travelers of all abilities, with wheelchair accessibility and accommodations for service animals.
• Advance booking recommended due to limited availability, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Overview and Experience

The New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise provides visitors with a unique and immersive experience on the Mississippi River.

This 2-hour paddlewheel cruise has a maximum capacity of 500 travelers and offers live jazz music by the Steamboat Stompers, as well as live commentary about the city’s iconic skyline and notable sites.

The cruise is accessible, with wheelchair and stroller access, and climate-controlled areas for comfort.

With a 4.2 rating from over 4,000 reviews, the Natchez Jazz Cruise offers a memorable way to experience the sights and sounds of the Crescent City.

Cruise Details

Passengers can choose between morning or afternoon float options on the Mississippi River during the New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise.

The cruise offers:

1. Live jazz performances by the Steamboat Stompers throughout the 2-hour journey.
2. Onboard live commentary highlighting the city’s skyline and notable sites like the Chalmette Battlefield.
3. Climate-controlled areas and restrooms on board, ensuring passenger comfort during the cruise.

The Steamboat Natchez’s capacity is limited to 500 travelers, providing an intimate and immersive experience on the waterways of New Orleans.

Dining Experience

Although an optional addition, passengers can enjoy a buffet lunch during the New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise.

The menu features Southern classics like Salad Du Jour, Southern Fried Fish, Red Beans and Rice, and Jambalaya. Dessert includes the local favorite, New Orleans Bread Pudding.

Coffee and tea are complimentary, while alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.

The buffet lunch provides an opportunity to savor the flavors of New Orleans as passengers take in the sights and sounds of the Mississippi River on the Steamboat Natchez.

This dining experience is an additional expense beyond the cruise ticket.

Meeting and Pickup Information

Travelers meet at the Gray Line New Orleans office, located at 400 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130, to board the Steamboat Natchez.

Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled departure to ensure a smooth boarding process. The cruise returns to the same meeting point after the 2-hour journey.

Here are a few key details:

1. Advance booking is recommended to secure a spot.
2. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
3. The cruise operates rain or shine, but may be canceled due to severe weather.

Accessibility and Accommodations

The New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise is designed to accommodate travelers of all abilities. The cruise offers wheelchair accessibility, stroller access, and welcomes service animals. To ensure a comfortable experience, the vessel features climate-controlled areas and an onboard restroom.

Accessibility Features	Details
Wheelchair Access	Available throughout the vessel
Stroller Access	Permitted on the cruise
Service Animals	Welcomed on board
Onboard Facilities	Climate-controlled areas, restroom

This inclusive approach allows all visitors to enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Mississippi River cruise.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Advance booking is recommended for the New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise, as availability can be limited.

The cruise offers:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
2. Flexible booking options, with morning and afternoon cruises available.
3. Group booking rates for parties of 9 or more.

Travelers should be aware that the cruise operates rain or shine, and cancellations may occur due to severe weather.

Transportation and Getting There

Getting to the meeting point for the New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise is straightforward.

The Gray Line New Orleans departure point is located at 400 Toulouse Street, right in the heart of the French Quarter. It’s an easy walk from many nearby hotels and attractions.

Public transportation is also an option, with the nearest bus and streetcar stops just steps away.

Since parking can be challenging in the area, it’s recommended to arrive early and explore the neighborhood on foot.

This way, you can make the most of your time before boarding the historic steamboat.

Cruising in All Weather Conditions

Although the New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise operates rain or shine, cruise operators may cancel sailings due to severe weather conditions for the safety of passengers.

The cruise’s weather policy considers several factors:

1. Heavy rain or thunderstorms that could impact the safety of the paddlewheel boat’s operation.

2. High winds or choppy waters that could make boarding and disembarking the vessel dangerous.

3. Extreme temperatures that could compromise the comfort and well-being of travelers.

Passengers are advised to check the weather forecast and be prepared for any potential changes or cancellations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Music Is Played on the Cruise?

The cruise features live jazz music performed by the Steamboat Stompers, providing an authentic New Orleans experience for passengers aboard the paddlewheel steamboat as it floats along the Mississippi River.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available?

The cruise offers discounted rates for groups of 9 or more. However, it doesn’t appear to have any advertised package deals or regular discounts for individual bookings. Advance reservations are recommended to secure availability.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks Onboard?

No, passengers can’t bring their own food and drinks onboard. The cruise offers an optional buffet lunch for an additional fee, and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase, but outside food and drink are not permitted.

How Often Do the Cruises Depart Throughout the Day?

The cruises typically offer morning and afternoon departures, with frequency varying based on demand. Guests should check the schedule when booking to ensure availability at their preferred time.

Is There a Dress Code or Any Attire Requirements?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but guests are encouraged to dress comfortably. Casual attire is suitable, though some may choose to dress up a bit for the jazz cruise experience.

The Sum Up

The Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise offers a unique opportunity to experience the charm of New Orleans. With live jazz music, commentary on the city’s iconic sights, and optional dining, this 2-hour cruise along the Mississippi River is a must-do for visitors. With climate-controlled areas and accessible accommodations, the cruise caters to a wide range of travelers, making it a practical and enjoyable way to explore the city’s rich history and culture.